TMJ

If your jaw is sore, stiff, or painful, see the experts at Repair Recover Restore (R3) in White Plains and Port Chester, New York. The skilled chiropractic team offers temporomandibular joint (TMJ) disorder treatments to ease discomfort and restore jaw joint function. Schedule an evaluation by phone or request one online today to learn more about your options.

What is TMJ?

TMJ is a joint disorder affecting one or more jaw joints. It can cause pain, stiffness, and other bothersome symptoms when not addressed. Treating TMJ issues can often restore jaw structure, function, and quality of life without invasive treatments like surgery. See the Repair Recover Restore specialists at the first sign of jaw pain.

What are the symptoms of TMJ disorders?

The symptoms of TMJ disorders include:

• Jaw pain
• Stiffness
• Decreased range of motion
• Clicking or popping sounds in your jaw
• Jaw tenderness
• Aching around your ear
• Facial pain
• Difficulty chewing
• Pain with chewing
• Locking of the jaw joint
• Difficulty opening and closing your mouth 

The pain might be mild to severe; it could come and go or be ongoing. If jaw pain persists long-term or is extreme, see the Repair Recover Restore team for an evaluation. 

I have TMJ. What may contribute to my problems?

While the cause isn’t always entirely clear, common TMJ disorder risk factors include:

• Genetics
• Jaw injuries
• Arthritis
• Teeth grinding
• Jaw clenching
• Jaw joint deterioration
• Connective tissue diseases

Establishing potential causes helps your specialist determine the most appropriate TMJ treatment plan.

How are TMJ issues diagnosed?

The Repair Recover Restore team examines your jaw joint and discusses your symptoms and medical history to determine if you have a TMJ disorder. They may ask you to open and close your mouth to observe your jaw’s range of motion. You might need X-rays, a CT scan, an MRI, blood tests, or other diagnostic tests to pinpoint the exact cause of your discomfort. 

How are TMJ disorders treated?

Treating TMJ disorders at Repair Recover Restore involves holistic options that optimize healing, minimize pain, and reduce the risk of further joint damage. 

The practice offers:

• Acupuncture
• Physical therapy
• Massage therapy 
• Rehabilitation
• Metagenics® supplements
• Heat or cold packs
• Stretching
• Relaxation techniques 
• Biofeedback

You might also wear a mouthguard to oral splint to reduce grinding, clenching, jaw pain, and injuries. Avoid overusing your jaw muscles. If you’re a candidate for surgery, your Repair Recover Restore provider offers referrals. 

Schedule a TMJ evaluation at Repair Recover Restore by phone or request one online today to determine which jaw pain treatment plan best suits you.